Boeing Rebuilding Trust as Airlines See Jet Quality Improve
Airline executives are cautiously optimistic about Boeing’s progress in restoring jet quality and rebuilding trust after years of safety and manufacturing crises. At the International Air Transport Association (IATA) summit in New Delhi, several airline leaders noted improvements in Boeing’s safety, quality, and delivery performance, though they emphasized that much work remains.
Alaska Airlines CEO Ben Minicucci acknowledged quarter-over-quarter improvement but stressed Boeing is not yet where it needs to be. His airline has deployed its own quality inspectors to Boeing’s production lines and conducts quarterly audits. This follows a high-profile incident in January 2024, when a door plug blew off a 737 MAX mid-flight.
Tim Clark, president of Emirates and a longtime Boeing critic, expressed more confidence in Boeing’s new leadership. He praised CEO Kelly Ortberg for clearer communication and greater factory presence. Emirates has 205 Boeing 777X jets on order, a model still awaiting certification.
Boeing is working to ramp up production while addressing quality concerns. Customers have noticed reduced out-of-sequence work and more transparency in the manufacturing process. Stephanie Pope, CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes, and Ortberg have been visible on the factory floor, signaling a cultural shift.
United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby, who previously criticized Boeing’s management, said the company has “turned the corner.” However, delays remain—Emirates is not expecting the 777X before mid-2026.
Boeing’s recovery is under close industry scrutiny, with regulators evaluating production increases and pending aircraft certifications. While cautious, airline leaders acknowledged a shift in tone, signaling progress in Boeing’s efforts to restore credibility.
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Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, yahoo.com